The recent boom in oil and gas production across Texas has created thousands of jobs and many new opportunities for energy-producing areas. Unfortunately, with an influx in traffic in these areas, there also has been an increase in crashes.

Fatalities

In the Eagle Ford Shale energy sector, a 26-county region that stretches from Laredo to Madisonville, TxDOT crash reports indicate there were 3,450 traffic crashes that resulted in serious injuries or fatalities in 2013, an increase of 7 percent over the previous year. The result was 238 traffic fatalities in the region in 2013.

The Permian Basin region experienced a 15 percent increase in roadway fatalities between 2012 and 2013, according to TxDOT crash reports. There were 4,411 fatal and serious injury crashes and 365 traffic fatalities in 2013 in the Permian Basin, a 59-county region that covers 75,000 square miles.

Be Safe. Drive Smart.

TxDOT has launched Be Safe. Drive Smart., a public education campaign to remind motorists to use extra caution when driving through energy work zones.

TxDOT is partnering with oil and gas companies, the Texas Department of Public Safety and communities across the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale energy sectors to promote roadway safety. The campaign includes safety messages on TV, radio, billboards, and gas pumps.

Safety Precautions

Drivers are urged to take the following basic safety precautions: buckle up; drive a safe speed; pass carefully; always stop at red lights and stop signs; and avoid using cell phones while driving.